Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja./HANDOUT
Nairobi City County has officially gazetted the Development Control Policy 2026, marking a major milestone in Governor Johnson Sakaja’s efforts to restore order in the capital’s rapidly expanding built environment and curb unplanned developments.
The policy provides a comprehensive legal and planning framework that will guide the approval of buildings and land developments across the city.
It comes at a time when Nairobi is experiencing rapid urban growth, increasing pressure on infrastructure and rising concerns over uncontrolled construction.
Governor Sakaja said the policy replaces fragmented planning approaches with a clear and predictable development framework that protects residential neighbourhoods, public spaces and the environment while promoting sustainable investment.
“Under the new policy, development approvals will be guided by clearly defined zoning regulations, building height limits, density controls, environmental safeguards and infrastructure capacity. New developments will also be aligned with the availability of essential services such as water, sewerage systems and road networks to prevent undue strain on existing infrastructure,” Sakaja said.
The framework was developed through extensive public participation involving resident associations, professionals, developers and local communities.
According to the county, the collaborative process was designed to balance investment opportunities with the interests of existing neighbourhoods while ensuring orderly urban growth.
Governor Sakaja described the policy as a key pillar of his administration’s vision to build a well-planned, modern and livable capital city.
“Our city is growing rapidly, and we must ensure that this growth is orderly, sustainable and benefits all residents. This policy gives Nairobi a clear roadmap to eliminate chaotic development while protecting communities and supporting responsible investment,” he added.
The gazettement follows the policy’s approval by the Nairobi City County Assembly and fulfills the county’s commitment to establish an enforceable development control framework for the capital.
Urban planners have long argued that inconsistent development controls have contributed to overcrowding, overburdened infrastructure, incompatible land uses and the loss of public open spaces in several parts of Nairobi.
The new policy is expected to strengthen compliance, improve enforcement and provide greater certainty for both residents and investors.
The Development Control Policy 2026 complements the Sakaja administration’s broader urban transformation agenda, which includes investments in roads, sewerage expansion, drainage, affordable housing and other public infrastructure aimed at making Nairobi a cleaner, safer and more resilient city.
The county has urged developers, property owners and residents to familiarise themselves with the new policy, which is now in force following its official gazettement.
